News Release

Thursday, January 20, 2000

Taxi Cab Murder Reward

The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public's help in the capture of the suspects.

On Tuesday, November 23, 1999, at approximately 11:40 p.m., Jose Reyes Benitez, 26 years of age, was discovered shot to death inside his taxi cab in the 5800 block of Camerford Avenue. He was a victim of a robbery and car jacking.

Jose Reyes Benitez is a long time resident of Los Angeles, and is survived by his wife, infant daughter, and his parents.

Los Angeles City Councilmember Jackie Goldberg has presented a motion for a $25,000.00 reward, which has been approved effective January 19, 2000.

On Friday, January 21, 2000, at 1:00 p.m., Hollywood Operation Support Division-Homicide Detectives will be holding a press conference in the roll call room of the station, 1358 N. Wilcox Avenue, Los Angeles, to announce the reward.

Detective III Michael Thrasher along with Detectives Vicki Bynum and Lloyd Parry will be conducting the press conference. The family members of Jose Reyes Benitez will be available to answer questions.

If you have any questions, please contact Detectives Vicki Bynum and Lloyd Parry, Hollywood Area Homicide unit at 213-485-6410, or after hours, Detective Headquarters Division at 213-485-2504.